Are you allergic to Christmas?

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If the prospect of Christmas is bringing you out in a rash, the cause might be more than just the usual seasonal stress. For anyone prone to allergies, Christmas is full of potential irritations. From that innocent looking Christmas tree in the corner of the room, to the stocking you hang on the end of your bed.

It can be a particular worry if this is your baby's first Christmas. Allergies are often inherited and you may be concerned that your little one will react like you do. Don't panic though, there's no need to behave like Scrooge and say "Bah humbug" to the whole celebration. Follow our guide to the key culprits for seasonal allergies and have a sneeze, wheeze and scratch-free Christmas.

Decorations

Stored Christmas decorations can be a real dust hazard.

Avoid the risk: Make sure those paper chains and baubles are dusted off before you bring them into the house. Fabric decorations in particular attract house dust mites, so opting for metal, plastic and glass ones instead should help.

Seasonal wreaths and Christmas trees

Real fir trees and foliage wreaths can trigger sneezing or asthma. Sufferers may react negatively to mould on the tree foliage.

Avoid the risk: Buying an artificial tree is the best solution, but if you just have to have the real deal, leave it outside until the last possible moment. Spray it with water before bringing it indoors, too, as this will help to remove any mould.

Anti-allergy nasal sprays, made from natural products, are available for adults but if you're pregnant make sure they are safe for you to use.

Christmas stockings and woolly jumpers

That big sock stuffed with presents and hanging on the end of the bed may cause problems for anyone who is sensitive to wool. Not to mention the cardigan your great aunt has spent all year knitting you or your baby and now expects to see worn. Wool allergies are quite common, with some people reacting to lanolin, the natural oil found in wool, or to chemical additives and dyes.

Avoid the risk: Remind your family and friends to avoid making or buying you or your baby clothing that may be a problem. If it is forced upon you though, then wearing layers of soft cotton under any wool items may help to reduce skin irritation.

Balloons

It’s estimated that more than a million people in the UK react to latex in balloons, either with mild skin irritation or more serious health problems. In rare serious cases, a person can suffer anaphylaxis, which causes breathing difficulties and can be fatal.

Burst balloons can also be a choking hazard for babies and toddlers so make sure you don't leave your child alone with one. Remember to throw burst balloons away immediately.

Avoid the risk: You can try using foil helium balloons instead of regular ones. If you want to avoid a last-minute rush to the shops search online for suppliers who can deliver.

Food

At Christmas it's particularly easy to over-eat. However, this can cause problems beyond indigestion. If you have guests staying or calling in, make sure that you're aware of any allergies. Nut allergies are particularly well known, but look out for hidden related ingredients such as sesame seeds or oils, which may also cause a reaction. Mince pies containing nuts are an obvious one to leave out.

Keep in mind that cheese powder is another popular hidden ingredient in all manner of ready meals and convenience foods, and is a common cause of allergic reactions.

Avoid the risk: Babies who have not yet been weaned will not be at risk, but watch out for toddlers helping themselves to peanuts or other potential problem foods at a family party.

Pregnant women and young children should also stay away from many of the foods found at buffets, including unpasteurised soft cheeses, pates, salami and Parma Ham. Seafood, including prawns, should be avoided to be on the safe side, as well as home-made mayonnaise.

Presents

Avoid the risk: Products with propyl, methyl, butyl, benzene and parfum listed as ingredients may be best avoided. Also be careful to check products based on natural oils, as some, such as lavender, may not be suitable for pregnant women.

Jewellery

Nickel is a metal commonly used to make jewellery, and can cause itchy, red and swollen skin if you’re allergic to it.

Avoid the risk: Buy gold or sterling silver, or look for nickel-free ranges.

Last reviewed: January 2014

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